Honoring the ones who serve...

Mike's cousin Ira is currently serving in the US Army, and he is home on leave from his deployment in Iraq.
It's so interesting to hear HIS stories vs. what we read in the media.
Wow.
He has also experienced God's protection first hand, and it's great to have him home safely.
His family put on a party tonight, not only in his honor, but also to honor others who are currently serving in the armed forces, or those who served before him.
Our family has a pretty strong connection to the military, as Mike's Grandpa was a WW2 Veteran who did some amazing things during that time.
The kids (and us big people) had a blast tonight. Nico was kind of bored, he is getting so grown up, and doesn't just run around anymore like the little ones. Here are a few pictures to prove it :-)))

Ira, Nina, and (Great-)Grandma Ila

Anya was busy taking pictures all night (except when posing for a quick shot with Mama and Daddy). Her Aunt Kami let her use her professional photo gear!

Nina and her favorite Cowboy ;-)

Just a speck of patriotism

Kami was teaching big'e Anja some country dancing moves :-))

Alex and Elia had fun running around with cousin (second or third??) Jack

Nina had quite a time out there on the dance floor, too ;-) That girl has some rhythm in her, let me tell you!